Welcome to another delightful seafood recipe! Today, we’re diving into the vibrant and healthy world of Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce. This easy-to-make dish combines tender cod fillets with a tangy, buttery, and herby sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking for a light, nutritious meal, this recipe will be a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Let’s get started!
Introduction
The Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce is an elegant yet simple seafood recipe inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Featuring a delightful blend of buttery richness, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and a refreshing lemony kick, this dish is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of fresh herbs like parsley and basil brings an aromatic finish to this healthy meal. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a must-try for those seeking a nutritious yet satisfying seafood meal.
Ingredients for Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 pound cod (cut into 4 pieces)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
- 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 3 green onions (sliced and divided into whites and greens)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine, or dashi)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon basil (chopped)
Optional Substitutions:
- Substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
- Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this recipe pescatarian.
- Use zucchini slices instead of cherry tomatoes for a milder flavor.
How to Make Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce – Step by Step
Step1: Sear the Cod
- Heat the olive oil and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the cod in the skillet and cook until lightly golden brown and cooked through, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
Step2: Sauté the Tomatoes
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the same skillet with the remaining olive oil and butter.
- Cook until the tomatoes are blistered and soft, about 3-5 minutes.
Step3: Build the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add chopped garlic, whites of the green onions, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Allow the mixture to cook for 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Step4: Finish with Lemon and Butter
- Add the lemon juice and remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Stir well until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step5: Reheat the Cod and Serve
- Place the cod fillets back into the skillet.
- Add the green tops of the onions, parsley, and basil.
- Serve immediately, spooning the sauce over the fish.
Helpful Tips for Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
- Use Fresh Cod: Whenever possible, use fresh cod fillets to ensure a delicate, flaky texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Cod: Cod cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Customize the Sauce: Adjust the lemon juice and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preference.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet helps achieve a perfect sear on the cod.
- Deglaze with Wine: For a richer sauce, use dry white wine to deglaze the pan after adding the garlic.
- Baste the Cod: Spoon the sauce over the cod as it warms to infuse more flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
Pair this flavorful dish with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Quinoa.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a comforting twist.
- A side salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes dressed in a light vinaigrette.
For a complete meal, serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Info for Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce (Per Serving):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbs: 8 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Vitamin A: 850 IU
- Vitamin C: 22 mg
Storage and Leftovers for Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store leftover cod and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating Tips: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warm. Avoid using the microwave, as it can overcook the fish.
- Freezing Advice: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
- Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
- Yes, but ensure to thaw the cod fillets completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- What can I substitute for chicken broth?
- You can use vegetable broth, white wine, or dashi for a different flavor profile.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Absolutely! Spinach or zucchini would be great additions to this dish.
Related Recipes for Cod Lovers:
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy and Tasty: A delightful appetizer that pairs well with this cod recipe.
- Peanut Butter Ganache – A Guide to Perfect Desserts: Indulge in a sweet treat after your savory meal.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this quick and flavorful Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce. With its perfect balance of zesty lemon, rich butter, and fresh herbs, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe and share your experiences or variations in the comments. Happy cooking!
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Cod in Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce – Quick, Healthy Recipe
Description
Welcome to another delightful seafood recipe! Today, we’re diving into the vibrant and healthy world of Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce. This easy-to-make dish combines tender cod fillets with a tangy, buttery, and herby sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking for a light, nutritious meal, this recipe will be a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 pound cod (cut into 4 pieces)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
- 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 3 green onions (sliced and divided into whites and greens)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine, or dashi)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon basil (chopped)
Optional Substitutions:
- Substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
- Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this recipe pescatarian.
- Use zucchini slices instead of cherry tomatoes for a milder flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Cod
- Heat the olive oil and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the cod in the skillet and cook until lightly golden brown and cooked through, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Tomatoes
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the same skillet with the remaining olive oil and butter.
- Cook until the tomatoes are blistered and soft, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add chopped garlic, whites of the green onions, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Allow the mixture to cook for 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Butter
- Add the lemon juice and remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Stir well until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Reheat the Cod and Serve
- Place the cod fillets back into the skillet.
- Add the green tops of the onions, parsley, and basil.
- Serve immediately, spooning the sauce over the fish.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Cod: Whenever possible, use fresh cod fillets to ensure a delicate, flaky texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Cod: Cod cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Customize the Sauce: Adjust the lemon juice and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preference.
